Order Follows Similar Action on Same-Sex Unions in Utah

WASHINGTON—The Supreme Court on Wednesday temporarily blocked the start of same-sex marriages in Virginia, as the justices moved closer to considering appeals on whether state laws barring the ceremonies are unconstitutional.

The court granted the delay in a brief order after local and state officials requested a temporary stay following a July ruling by the Fourth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Richmond, Va., striking down the...